Native migratory birds are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Arizona ARS §17-235. Killing, trapping, or possessing protected birds, eggs, or feathers without a permit is illegal. Maricopa County supports compliance through MCACC and AZGFD wildlife reporting.
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects nearly every native bird species, plus their nests, eggs, and feathers. Arizona layers on ARS §17-235 and AZGFD rules requiring a license or permit to take, possess, or transport wildlife, including non-game birds. Common Maricopa County species like mourning doves, hummingbirds, hawks, owls, and Gambel's quail are covered. Removing an active nest with eggs or chicks generally requires a federal depredation permit; even nuisance pigeons need humane handling. House sparrows, European starlings, and rock pigeons are non-native and not MBTA-protected, but cannot be killed inhumanely under ARS §13-2910. AZGFD enforces state rules; injured wildlife should go to a licensed rehabilitator.
MBTA violations are federal misdemeanors with fines up to fifteen thousand dollars and six months in jail; commercial violations escalate to felonies. ARS Title 17 violations bring state fines, license suspension, and jail. Inhumane killing triggers ARS §13-2910 cruelty charges.
Surprise, AZ
Amplified music and sound in Surprise must comply with the city's noise ordinance. Amplified sound audible beyond property lines that disturbs neighbors is p...
Surprise, AZ
Excessive barking dogs in Surprise are addressed through the city's nuisance provisions and Maricopa County animal control regulations. Dogs that bark contin...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise regulates construction noise through its City Code. Residential construction is generally permitted Monday through Saturday during daytime hours. Su...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise is near Luke Air Force Base, which generates significant military jet noise. The city has no authority over military flight operations but maintains...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise does not experience snow and has no space saving or dibs system for parking. The desert climate eliminates the need for shoveled-out parking spot re...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise prohibits abandoned, inoperable, or junk vehicles on public streets and visible on private property. Vehicles without current registration or that a...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how Surprise's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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